Brooklyn's Breaking Academy

- 1635 Bath Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11214

Introduction / Overview

In the dynamic and culturally rich landscape of Brooklyn, Brooklyn's Breaking Academy stands out as a unique and dedicated space for the art form of breakdancing, also known as breaking. This specialized dance school offers a focused environment for aspiring dancers of all ages to learn the intricate and powerful moves of this globally recognized street dance. It's more than just a series of lessons; it's an opportunity to immerse oneself in a culture that values discipline, creativity, and self-expression. A News 12 report highlighted the academy for teaching kids the "breathtaking stunts that straphangers commonly see," and it's this authentic approach that defines the school's mission. The coaches at Brooklyn's Breaking Academy don't just teach the physical moves; they also instill the core values of the breaking scene, such as patience, respect, and the importance of battling to build reputation. The academy’s goal is to ensure that mistakes happen in practice, preparing dancers to shine on the "big stage." This commitment to a holistic learning experience makes it an ideal choice for New York parents looking to enroll their children in a program that is both physically demanding and personally enriching. The supportive environment is designed to help students, especially beginners, overcome the initial challenges of the dance and build their confidence, a skill that extends far beyond the studio.

Location and Accessibility

Brooklyn's Breaking Academy is situated at 1635 Bath Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11214, USA. This location in the Bath Beach neighborhood of Brooklyn makes it a convenient destination for families in the surrounding areas. The academy is positioned in a bustling part of the borough, with various local businesses and residential areas nearby. For those relying on public transportation, the area is serviced by several bus routes and is within a reasonable distance of subway stations, making it accessible for a wide range of New York City residents. Specific details on public transit routes are best found through the MTA’s trip planner, but the address provides a clear starting point for anyone looking to visit. Being located in a vibrant and well-connected part of Brooklyn ensures that the academy is not just a destination for a class but is also integrated into the fabric of the community. The accessibility of the location is a significant benefit, reducing travel time and making it easier for students to attend classes consistently, which is essential for mastering any complex skill like breaking.

Services Offered

• Advanced Classes: Structured programs for experienced dancers who have mastered the fundamentals and are ready to tackle more complex choreography and moves.
• Beginner's Classes: A foundational curriculum designed for new students with no prior dance experience. These classes focus on the basic elements of breakdancing, such as toprock, footwork, and freezes.
• Youth Classes: Programs specifically tailored for young students. The school is known to be "good for kids," with classes for a variety of ages, helping them develop coordination and confidence from a young age.
• Dance School: The overall framework of the academy, providing a comprehensive and structured educational experience in the art of breaking.
• Combos and Battling Skills: According to a local news report, the academy’s coaches teach "combos and how to battle someone else," which are key components of the breaking culture and scene.

Features / Highlights

• Good for kids: The school is specifically designed to be a safe, positive, and nurturing environment for children and youth, focusing on their growth and development.
• Specialization in breaking: Unlike general dance studios, Brooklyn's Breaking Academy provides a unique and focused curriculum dedicated entirely to the art of breakdancing.
• Experienced coaching: The academy's coach, Justin Velez, is highlighted in a news report for his expertise and emphasis on patience and practice.
• Focus on personal growth: The curriculum aims to build confidence and character, preparing students to handle challenges both on and off the dance floor.
• Community-oriented culture: The academy is part of a larger, supportive breaking scene where reputation is built through hard work and skill, not just performance.
• Clear skill progression: The division of classes into beginner and advanced levels provides a clear path for students to track their progress and set new goals.

Contact Information

Address: 1635 Bath Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11214, USA

Phone: (917) 309-4117

What is worth choosing

Choosing a dance school in New York City is a significant decision, and Brooklyn's Breaking Academy presents a compelling case for itself, particularly for those interested in the specialized world of breaking. One of the most significant reasons to choose this academy is its singular focus. While many dance studios offer a mix of genres, Brooklyn's Breaking Academy is dedicated entirely to breaking. This specialization means that students receive a depth of instruction and a level of expertise that would be difficult to find elsewhere. The coaches are not just general dance instructors; they are experts in the breaking culture and its techniques, providing an authentic and comprehensive learning experience. This focus is particularly valuable for serious students who are committed to mastering the art form.

Furthermore, the school's philosophy goes beyond physical training. It emphasizes the cultural and mental aspects of breaking, such as building confidence, patience, and resilience. A report on the academy notes that the coach stresses patience because breaking can be "hard and it's a lot to take in at first." This understanding of the learning process and the emotional journey of a dancer is what sets the school apart. It's a place where students are encouraged to make mistakes in practice, ensuring they are prepared for the "big stage" or battle. This supportive approach is a crucial element, especially for youth classes, where building a positive self-image is just as important as learning a new skill. The academy’s reputation as being "good for kids" is a testament to its nurturing and constructive environment, making it an excellent choice for parents who want to see their children develop both physically and mentally.

Finally, the clear structure of services—with classes for both beginners and advanced students—makes it easy for anyone to get started and see a path for their future development. Whether you have zero experience and want to learn the fundamentals or are an intermediate dancer looking to refine your skills, the academy has a program for you. This straightforward progression ensures that students are always challenged at the right level, preventing frustration and encouraging continuous improvement. The location in a vibrant part of Brooklyn also adds to its appeal, making it a convenient and practical choice for families in the area. By combining specialized, high-quality instruction with a supportive and confidence-boosting environment, Brooklyn's Breaking Academy offers a truly unique and valuable experience for anyone in New York looking to join the world of breaking.

Brooklyn's Breaking Academy

1635 Bath Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11214, USA